Governor Umaru Radda’s first year in office has been marked by significant strides across various sectors in Katsina State, says the state commissioner for information.
According to a statement issued by the commissioner for information and culture, Bala Zango, the administration’s efforts have focused on good governance, security, agriculture, economic development, education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
He said Governor Radda’s administration implemented the Treasury Single Account (TSA) to improve financial transparency and accountability in government operations, adding that this move aims to enhance the efficiency of cash flow management and ensure that state resources are utilised effectively.
He also said that addressing insecurity has been a top priority, given the challenges of insurgency, terrorism, and banditry in the region, adding that the state adopted a community-based approach by recruiting over 1,500 locals into the “Community Watch Corps” to support security agencies. He noted that with investments of over 20 billion naira in training and equipment, these efforts led to a remarkable 70% reduction in banditry, even as training is also underway for an additional 550 community watch members to be deployed to the state’s most vulnerable areas.
“Recognising agriculture as the backbone of Katsina’s economy, Governor Radda’s administration made significant investments to support farmers. The state purchased over 20 metric tonnes of fertiliser at subsidised rates to ensure a successful harvest. Additionally, a partnership with China was secured to bring mechanised agricultural equipment to the state, with plans to establish Agricultural Mechanization Centers in each Local Government Area to transform farming practices,” he said.
He said the establishment of the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASSEDA) has played a key role in boosting economic activities and job creation. He added that with a N5 billion revolving fund for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), collaborations with the Bank of Industry, and training programmes for youth and women, the administration has laid the foundation for sustainable economic growth and entrepreneurship in the state.
He said Governor Radda’s administration has made significant investments in the education sector, recruiting over 7,000 teachers and rehabilitating schools across the state. In a bid to promote innovation, he revealed that 68 youths from Katsina were sponsored to study Artificial Intelligence and Bio-Economy in China, demonstrating the state’s commitment to embracing technological advancements.
He also said that healthcare services in Katsina had been upgraded, with the construction of a 26-bed dialysis centre and an ultra-modern imaging centre to cater to advanced medical needs. He added that the state has also partnered with Siemens to procure state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, aiming to position Katsina as a hub for health tourism in Nigeria.
